Congressional App Challenge launches on November 9

The second annual Congressional App Challenge is set to launch on November 9, 2015, and to run through January 15, 2016. During that period, U.S. high school students in participating Congressional districts will create and submit “apps” for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice that will be judged by panels of local judges.

18th District Representative Anna G. Eshoo along with Bob Goodlatte selected Representatives Mimi Walters and Hakeem Jeffries to chair the 2015 Congressional App Challenge. Representatives Eshoo and Goodlatte spearheaded the creation of the Challenge and co-chaired the first Challenge in 2014.

“This is an extraordinary opportunity for students in our congressional district, and I’m excited to help foster their interest in science, technology, engineering and math education,” said Eshoo. “The next decade is estimated to create approximately 8.5 million STEM job opportunities, but during that same time it is also estimated that the U.S. will face a shortage of 1 million STEM graduates. The Congressional App Challenge seeks to address this disparity by encouraging students to create their own app and pursue an education in STEM fields.”

The Judging Period will last from January 15 to February 15, 2016, after which the winners will be announced and honored by their Member of Congress. The winners’ apps will also be featured on a display in the U.S. Capitol building.